3D measurement technology for quality control of surfaces
The tighter the tolerances for components become, the more difficult continuous quality control becomes. At present, random samples and trend evaluations are still sufficient in most cases to counter deviations in quality at an early stage.
However, it is becoming apparent that these statistical measurement methods are no longer sufficient as customer expectations rise.
The time-consuming tactile and manual measurement of components is not feasible with 100% inspection for reasons of productivity.
There is a risk of delivery delays even with medium-sized series. Optical measurement methods for sustainable 3D component measurement can be the solution here.
The innovative process of industrial computed tomography is also suitable for inspecting internal surfaces, as it can be used to create non-destructive complete views of components. This modern X-ray technology also enables surface reconstruction, in which a CAD model can be reconstructed.
3D component measurement using optical measuring methods
3D measurement technology is a relatively new method of visualizing an existing product using data recorded on the object.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, all measuring sections were recorded using calipers and processed into wireframe models in expensive computer centers.
The manual methods were soon replaced by rotating laser scanners, which were already able to display surface models on cheaper and more powerful computers. However, it was not yet possible to achieve more than a certain degree of dimensional control with these methods.
It was only with the advent of innovative technologies and a further increase in computing power in data processing that the tools were available to carry out 3D measurements down to the nanometer range.
In addition to the simple dimensional inspection of outer edges, drill holes, blind holes, recesses and roundness, these methods also enable a view into the depths of the surface structure.
The measurement of roughness, waviness, scoring and shape changes is now possible in seconds thanks to optical measurement technologies.
This opens up completely new possibilities for the quality control of high-precision manufactured components using precise and visual measurement reports.
